One of Francis’ strengths is his willingness to surprise, to take the unexpected path.

We are the ones who have been left behind. We suffer a loss; our loved ones do not.

The notion that our prayers can aid the dead as well as the living has always been a part of the Christian faith.

Why might you find yourself praying to your deceased grandmother rather than to Christ? Because in your story she is another Christ, not an alternative Christ.

We all yearn for love, so it is a small wonder that sometimes we fall in love with the notion of love before we meet someone whom we can love genuinely. The same can happen in our relationship with God.

We do not simply submit because someone must rule. Having been given some say, we must strive to speak according to what we think Christ would have us say.